Trump Keeps Greenland on the Radar, Suggests Force Not Off the Table

In a recent interview, former U.S. President Donald Trump reignited his controversial idea of annexing Greenland, saying he wouldn’t rule out the use of military force to bring the Danish territory under American control. Though he insisted he wasn’t planning an invasion, he kept the option open.

Trump emphasized Greenland’s importance to U.S. national security and global influence, citing its strategic position between North America and Europe. “We need Greenland very badly,” he declared, saying the island's small population would be “cherished” under American care.

While admitting such a move may be unlikely, Trump maintained that it remains “certainly” a possibility. He has repeatedly floated the idea of purchasing Greenland or taking it by force, despite Denmark and Greenland firmly rejecting all such proposals.

Experts say Trump’s interest may stem not just from Greenland’s strategic location, but also from its rich resources—especially as climate change continues to expose the island’s vast reserves of rare earth metals, oil, and gas. These materials are critical for military tech, green energy, and electric vehicles.

Greenland officials have not been quiet in their opposition. Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen issued a strong rebuttal, asserting that the island makes its own decisions and will not be “gotten” by any country. “We do not belong to anyone else,” he said in March.

Trump’s annexation ambitions haven’t stopped with Greenland. He’s also made provocative remarks about turning Canada into the United States’ “51st state,” triggering political backlash. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who just won re-election, capitalized on anti-Trump sentiment during his campaign.

Trump told NBC it was “highly unlikely” he’d take military action against Canada, although he left the door open for discussion during Carney’s upcoming visit to Washington. “It would be a cherished state,” Trump mused about Canada.